1. The great religious persistence with which Peru adhered to the Catholic faith is a
praiseworthy distinction for that illustrious country. This same nation is united with Us
and with the Apostolic See through allegiance and choice. A number of things show this,
among which are the prayers addressed to Us to support the holy missions in the remotest
districts of that land. Priests and religious are needed, men whose devotion and piety
would be nourished by skill and zeal for daily growth. We remember with pleasure that a
large group of Catholics from the entire country met two years ago in the capital of Peru,
knowledgeable and virtuous men distinguished by their position and wealth. From this group
a certain new and joyful spiritual love burst forth. Without hesitation they zealously
promoted the faith of their fathers, and with reverence and love they followed this See of
Peter in public discussions. Venerable brothers, We have never avoided any opportunity to
show Our singular good will toward Peru with increased encouragement and open proof of Our
benevolence. There are many things We do not want to pass by, among which is this: Peru
has attained much dignity and authority from the honors and special privileges attributed
by the Apostolic See to its bishop. These distinctions fill Us with a certain hope that in
whatever manner your ancestors carried out their wonderful work, from this moment on the
leaders of Peru might employ as much effort on behalf of these matters. Furthermore, We
hope that they will fully approve everything which their steadfastness in defending the
Catholic faith has lawfully conferred on them.

2. It is with sorrow that We view the recently disseminated law in Peru. Under the
appearance of regulating the marriage of non-Catholics, it introduced in effect, what is
called a civil marriage, even though that law does not affect people of all conditions.
What is more, putting aside the authority of the Church, a civil ceremony is permitted for
mixed marriages whenever the Holy See, for serious reasons and for the eternal salvation
of the Christian family, would consider it inappropriate to exempt anyone from the law
forbidding marriage between those of different faiths.

3. We were seriously upset by these events, which have been perpetrated in violation of
the obedience due to Our dignity and to the authority divinely invested in Our supreme
ministry. We urge you to preserve safe and sound the Catholic teaching on marriage and
assure the preservation of the Peruvian faithful.

4. We are concerned about the whole Christian flock, as Our apostolic duties require,
for We have given frequent instruction concerning the sanctity of marriage. Jesus Christ,
the author of the new covenant, translated the duty of nature into sacraments, and this
duty cannot be divorced from religion and immersed in worldly affairs. Preceded by sacred
rite, it can bring about a more tranquil and happy life for the spouses, strengthen family
harmony, raise children more correctly, and suitably provide for the welfare of its
community. Indeed, We have treated this matter in greater detail in Our apostolic letter Arcanum
divinae sapientiae consilium. In that letter We wanted to remind the faithful of the
vigilant cares which the Church has shown for preserving the honor and sanctity of
marriage, for the Church is the best guardian and avenger of mankind. We also reminded the
civil authorities of what matters they could rightfully regulate. It is not necessary for
Us to bring each of these examples to your attention. It is, however, relevant to mention
again that the leaders of the state have authority in human affairs which led to marriage
and generally concern civil matters. However, in the truly Christian marriage, they have
no authority, for this matter should be left to the jurisdiction of the Church, which is
not established by men. If the marriage contract is properly performed - that is, as
Christ established it - then they will be able to see if anything which pertains to civil
law might follow. It is Catholic teaching that the dignity of the sacrament adds to the
marriage of Christians; nobody can depart from this without losing faith. For that reason,
these matters should be governed by the divine authority of the Church alone. No marriage
can be considered firmly ratified unless it is joined according to Church law and
discipline. It is easy to understand from this that wherever the Tridentine law of the
chapter Tametsi[1] would have been correctly promulgated, then any marriage contracted
against its prescription should be considered null and void. That Tridentine law was not
only promulgated in Peru, but it has been enforced for a long time and faithfully
observed. Therefore, the Apostolic See strongly desires to keep this teaching.

5. Venerable Brothers, instruct the flock entrusted to your care more clearly and
fully, so they do not remain unaware of any part of this serious matter, which greatly
concerns the eternal salvation of many of them. We also want you to use your authority and
advice to influence those who are empowered to make laws in Peru. Enter into their favor,
so they consider the example of the Catholic people. The courage of the blessed citizens
Turibius and Rose, great examples of virtue, comes to mind here. Publicly restore both
mind and will, so that they never depart from the Church's precepts in making laws, which,
if correctly observed, will bring about the natural happiness of the people. They should
promise that they will not allow the recent decree to stand unchanged. They should also
promise that civil marriage laws will contain nothing contrary to the teaching of the
Church.

6. Meanwhile, filled with the hope of divine assistance and confident in your zeal and
skill, We lovingly bestow Our apostolic blessing as a pledge of heavenly gifts and as a
sign of Our special good wishes for you, Venerable Brothers, and for all the clergy and
people entrusted to each of you.